“And the children of Gad and the children of Reuben answered, saying, As the LORD hath said unto thy servants, so will we do.”
Context: Numbers 32 records the account of the tribes of Gad and Reuben, along with half of the tribe of Manasseh, making a request to Moses. These tribes, who were primarily livestock owners, noticed that the land of Jazer and Gilead were suitable for raising livestock. They approached Moses with a proposal to settle in these lands instead of entering the Promised Land with the rest of the Israelites. In verse 31, the children of Gad and the children of Reuben respond to Moses’ inquiry by affirming their commitment to do as the Lord had commanded.
Obedience to God’s Commands: The response of the children of Gad and the children of Reuben reveals their commitment to obeying the commands of the Lord. They acknowledge that they will fulfill their obligations as stated by the Lord through Moses. This attitude of obedience is commendable and serves as a reminder for us to diligently follow God’s instructions in our lives.
Faithfulness and Integrity: The tribes of Gad and Reuben demonstrated faithfulness and integrity in their response. They upheld their word and recognized the importance of keeping their promises. Their commitment to doing what the Lord had said revealed their trust in God’s guidance and their desire to live according to His will. This teaches us the value of faithfulness and integrity in our own relationships and commitments.
Submission to Authority: The children of Gad and the children of Reuben recognized Moses’ authority as the leader appointed by God. They submitted to his inquiry and responded accordingly. This demonstrates the importance of submitting to God-given authority in our lives. Whether it is within the family, the church, or society, submitting to authority figures who align with God’s principles is a vital aspect of our obedience to God.
Trusting God’s Plan: Although the tribes of Gad and Reuben chose not to enter the Promised Land, their response indicates that they still trusted in God’s plan for the Israelites. They understood that the Lord had assigned specific tasks to each tribe and accepted their role in that divine plan. This reminds us to trust God’s guidance and timing even when it may differ from our own expectations or desires.
The Importance of Communication: This verse highlights the significance of clear communication in resolving matters of importance. The tribes of Gad and Reuben expressed their intentions to Moses, ensuring that their desires and commitments were understood. Open and honest communication fosters understanding, avoids misunderstandings, and enables collaboration, which is crucial for healthy relationships and effective decision-making.
Overall, Numbers 32:31 emphasizes the importance of obedience, faithfulness, integrity, submission to authority, trusting God’s plan, and effective communication. By studying this verse, we can learn valuable lessons for our own lives and grow in our relationship with God and others.
